Double or triple pane windows?

Question

What is the difference in R value and is it worth it? What is the best kind of window to get and what is the R value of that?

Answer 1

if quality was a constant then triple glazed would be the best. however.....the cost of triple glazed windows to some may be prohibitive. I've heard of custom windows from Vermont that have a 11R/U value??? killer money but (the best) In my opinion pella wood windows Coated/ argon filled may be the best expensive also

Answer 2

Very often a multiple pane window is stated to have Argon, or some other non toxic gas somehow infused between the panes.

Can we the consumer know the level, or the REAL "R" value, and/or monitor it??? Doubtful.

I offer this, with all due respect to you and any others who answer.

GLASS and AIR are neither GREAT barriers for temp. or sound insulation. Certainly a double pane offers a wee bit more than a single; hence one might assume that a Triple, adds to that.

One of my larger issues is the SEALING of that type of window, any warantee, and the overall effectiveness,,,as you suggest in "R" value. Obviously other factors relate, such as attic or wall insulation; window caulking; soffit venting; AC/HEAT systems; changing filters regularly; doors left open or not; Climate in your local area; etc.

On a light hearted note...I'd probably be saying "HMMMM?" if I happened to see an insect; dead; between the panes?

We all should likely monitor ALL aspects of the dwelling to make our utility bills as user friendly as possible. The Cost versus savings might not be known to you for a YEAR, but certainly should be considered.

Steven Wolf

maybe not a direct answer; but "food for thought"

Answer 3

Windows do not have an R value. They have a u rating and a vt rating. Triple pane windows are more energy efficient but they are more expensive.

Answer 4

RICH is an idiot. Windows do have R-values. In fact R-values are simply 1/U-value. Therefore if anything has a U-value it also has an R-value.